Heading out hunting means crossing fields to get to a blind, a spot, or up a tree stand. Having the right bow or rifle is critical, but you also want to make sure that you’re dressed for success. Wearing brush pants can help to make your next hunt more successful and pain-free.
Best Features of Brush Pants for Hunting
There are some key features that you should look for in hunting brush pants. Brush pants can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, nylon, polyester, and elastomere. Some brush pants are made with oil or wax covered cloth as a means of repelling water.
When searching for the right pair of hunting brush pants, you want to consider the landscapes you will be traversing and how often.
Some key brush pants features to consider for hunting are:
- Durability
- Stitching and construction
- Breathability
- Water resistance
- Tear resistance
- Camouflage
- Belts, suspenders, and wader attachments
- Pockets and pouches
Waterproof Hunting Brush Pants
If you hunt regardless of the weather, and especially if you are into hunting in wetlands or on the water, then having brush pants made of waterproof materials, such as nylon, polyester, or wax-covered cotton, is probably
best.
Brush Pants Breathability
If you are into hunting in warmer weather or further south, cotton offers
more breathability and can help keep you cool. Hunts can go on for many hours and even days depending on if you plan to camp or stay in the blind for an extended period. So brush pants that have breathability can play a huge role in keeping you comfortable.
Brush Pants Construction
Quality brush pants often come with either double padding or another more durable material, such as Dermatuff, that goes along the front of the leg and usually wraps around the calf. The more durable material prevents brambles, branches, and seeds from tearing the fabric and also helps to protect when kneeling, a frequent position while hunting.
Suspenders, Belts and Waders
Brush pants can come with suspenders or suspender attachments which have the advantage of always keeping your pants secure and in place. Most pants will already have belt loops, which some people find more comfortable. If you are planning on doing more hunting in wetter weather and use waders, it’s recommended to get a pair with loops to attach your waders to your brush pants.
Stitching, Pockets and Pouches
All good brush pants come with reinforced stitching, making them incredibly durable and long-lasting. Most types of brush pants come with abundant pockets, generally two in the front and sometimes two on the seat of the pants, for comfort and carrying gear. You may also find accessories such as knife sheaths and rear grommets on the pant legs for extra versatility and durability.
Camouflage Brush Pants
Brush pants can have an external camouflage print to help you blend in with your environment. This is less important if you will be wearing waders unless they are camo waders. Usually, however, brush pants that are not camouflaged will come in earthy tones which will still provide you some cover from being spotted by animals.
Washable Brush Pants
It is important to choose a brand of hunting brush pants made of materials that are washable and have only minimal shrinkage. Cotton, for example, is susceptible to shrinking when washed in warm or hot water and run through a drier. Make sure to read the materials list on the package or inside label and follow the washing instructions to prevent the loss of size and extend the lifespan of the pants. Some materials are also better at staying dirt and dust free and provide better stain resistance.
Hunting Brush Pants Come In Many Varieties
Just as with everything in life, brush pants come with a lot of variety. It’s
worthwhile, especially if you’re getting into hunting, to get a general idea of
how and where you will be hunting before you buy a pair. If you still can’t narrow down your choices, just remember that it doesn’t hurt to have more than one pair of hunting brush pants! Regardless of your choice, a pair of brush pants will increase the chances your hunt is happy and successful.
